Dancer In The Dark review

Film critics are not fond of the term "masterpiece" but no other word will suffice for Lars von Trier's emotionally wrought musical melodrama.

Bjork delivers an award-winning performance as Czech immigrant Selma Jezkova, a single mother with a rare illness which slowly blinds her. Aware that a similar fate awaits her 10-year-old son Gene (Kostic), Selma toils in a factory to pay for a special operation, helped by best friend Kathy (Deneuve).

But Selma finds herself in unexpected trouble when she catches next door neighbour Bill (Morse) stealing her savings. A struggle ensues and Selma accidentally shoots Bill, starting a chain of events which forces her to make the choice between her own life and that of her beloved Gene.

Dancer In The Dark is the cinematic equivalent of a sledgehammer to the stomach. It is a powerful portrait of shattered innocence and self-sacrifice, beautifully photographed by von Trier and cinematographer Robby Miller.

The grainy hand-held camera work lends the film the air of a documentary, and brings a pleasing roughness to the musical numbers which punctuate the main drama.

Such is the power of the narrative, and the depth of the performances, that it is impossible not to be stunned into total silence as the film's heroine embarks on her selfless and tragic course.